Edu Explains What Really Happened In Arsenal's Raphinha Pursuit

Former Leeds winger Raphinha was hot property this summer, and Arsenal technical director Edu has explained why a move failed to materialise. 

Barcelona acquired the Brazilian’s services in a deal that could reach up-to £60.3m, adding to an attack already stacked with supremely gifted talent.

For a long time, it seemed as though the 25-year-old would be gracing the Emirates turf for the coming season.

However, Edu has stated a move was never close to coming to fruition, after a conversation he had with the player’s agent, Deco:

"People think we went in too deep about Raphinha, because Raphinha was everywhere.

"It's fair we did have some conversations with Deco because Deco is his agent and I have a good relationship [with him] - we are friends.

"I just said to Deco, 'Can you explain to me the situation with Raphinha?'

"He was clear, 'Edu, we have a good relationship but I'm not going to lie to you, his idea is to go to Barcelona because he's dreaming to go to Barcelona, and we've been talking to Barcelona since a long time ago'.

"Okay, thank you very much, if something happens then just let me know because I can explore and understand the situation.

"If not, no problem and we carry on with our relationship."

The picture that the Brazilian paints is far different to the picture that was painted in the media, with some outlets reporting that a deal was a formality at one stage.

From the Arsenal perspective, they managed things perfectly. Once they knew the priorities of Raphinha, they swiftly moved on.

In a world of complexity, such as is the world of transfers, acting decisively is key, otherwise a club can end up chasing shadows and entering a season empty handed.

It would appear, therefore, that the club have learned the lessons of years past, where the pursuit of a primary target consumed the window. That often meant that a secondary target was cobbled together at the last minute, or not pursued at all.

For the Gunners, a move for a winger is still a primary concern, as starboy Bukayo Saka still needs apt competition.

Whilst Gabriel Jesus can fill the right wing berth, like-for-like competition for the 20-year-old is key for the coming season.

For now, Arsenal fans will be pleased with the authority and decisiveness that Edu and co. are conducting themselves in this window.